Ford Focus (40k) Front Suspension Knocking Over Bumps/Holes

[wattsie_2004]

My 2003 40k Focus is making knocking sounds as it goes over bumps or potholes. The sound is like a dull thud and seems to occur as the front end hits a bump/hole.

My thoughts were that it may be something to do with the front bushes but I haven't had a thorough look yet (partly because it's so cold outside!)

Anyone have any suggestions as to what it might be.

Cheers, Wattsie

[CNHSS1]

My missus has an 02 Focus. so far ive replaced both front A/R droplinks (most likely from your description of the symptoms) although it weirdly broke a front spring when i pulled it off the drive the other day cars done 60k, mostly rural driving to be fair (windy roads and potholes...

if its the droplinks, they look fine on the car, and wont feel worn if you jack up one side due to loading of the roll bar itself. ideally get both front wheels up a ramp enough to reach underneath and give each droplink a good tug, will show up easily then

HTH
CNH

[wattsie_2004]

Cheers, will have a look at these over the weekend.

[chrispitman]

Yep got an 2001 focus about every 30K miles I have replaced the drop links, the early ones have poly bush and make a thud sound, the later are steel ball and make a click sound like a broken spring. Get from a motor factor about £15 ea ford want silly money. Easy to change.